TALLAHASSEE — In the latest blow to Florida Democrats, the Senate Democratic leader abruptly announced he is leaving the party in favor of no-party affiliation. In a dramatic speech Thursday on the floor of the chamber, Sen. Jason Pizzo said he had sent in his voter registration change and asked the Senate Democratic caucus to choose a new leader.

Politico reports Florida Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo is leaving the Democratic Party, but he will not be joining Republicans. “Here’s the issue: The Democratic Party in Florida is dead. But there are good people that can resuscitate it.